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His words were as sharp as a surgeon’s instrument. “In the future do not submit any more work to this publication,” his email stated. There it was in black and white. I had committed the cardinal sin of writing:
I had pissed off an editor!
And now I was being blackballed and blacklisted. In my more than a decade of writing, I had never been pink slipped before-- a record of which I was extremely proud. But still, I offered no apologies, no regrets.
Our parting of ways was inevitable. Like most freelancers, I don’t typically take kindly to publishers who use my work, and then refuse to pay me. And worse still, are those who ignore follow-up emails purposed to correct the problem.
So in “street speak”, I let him know how I felt! “Write for you again, surely you jest," I wrote. I assured him that he was more likely to need me in the future than I would him! Usually, in business situations, I try to “take the high road.” Writing is my life, my love, and my livelihood. So I tend to tread very carefully. But, I had had enough.
I was simply frustrated and fed up from spending endless hours chasing checks and reporting dead beat publishers to writers’ bulletin boards, the Better Business Bureau, and anyone who would allow me a platform.
I merely wanted an honest day’s wage for an honest day’s work---nothing more, nothing less. Unfortunately for this guy, the longer I waited, the more “creative” my collection tactics became. I threatened this man with everything from legal action to a personal visit from my not so friendly big brothers!
But on some levels my desperate attempts eventually worked! Six months later, when I least expected it, it came. I got a PayPal notification that he had placed funds in my account. To be gracious, I forwarded a note of thanks. He responded in kind, and I had finally gotten closure to this drama. I was pleased as punch that the “bad guy” didn’t win this time. My writing world was made right again.
Just as I predicted, 2 months after settling our dispute, he contacted me to see if I would write for him again. Tickled, I shot a response back to him, “sure thing” I responded. And thus began our renewed relationship.
When I received contributors' copies of the magazine in which my work appeared, I was totally impressed. It changed my perception of him. Here was a man who was not trying to be unethical in his payment practices-- he simply was wearing too many hats, not managing the publication well, and not as profitable as he should have been. This was evidenced by the fact that he was only charging a $1.50 for this fabulous publication, and had no masthead reflecting a supporting staff.
I contacted him right away, suggested that he raise the cover price, and gave some savvy suggestions on ways he could save time and money, and produce his magazine with more profit. He was so wowed with my advice that he promoted me from freelance writer to Senior Editor! And if I must say, together we make an awesome combination. My business background greatly enhances his creative visions.
It just goes to show that we can write a happy ending to our publishing nightmares, with the right actions.
- Never burn bridges unnecessarily—-You just never know what alliance may elevate your writing career, or help to achieve your long-term goals.
- Know that without risks there is no growth—Since this publisher had a poor payment history (not to mention a sharp tongue), I could have opted not to work with him again, but I decided to take a chance. And it panned out. Which translated into a win-win situation for both of us. Not to mention a boost to my bottom line.
- Learn to look at the big picture (never cut off your nose to spite your face).
- Recognize that strategy is just as important as good writing skills for a successful writing career.
- Believe that good can come from bad, and act accordingly!
…And a little chocolate on rough days doesn’t hurt either!
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About The Author:
Jennifer Brown Banks is a freelance writer, editor and award-winning poet. She serves on the Steering Committee of the
Chicago Writers Association. E-mail
Jenniferwriter@yahoo.com
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